The Cost of a Replacement Car Key
It can be frustrating to lose your car keys. But it's important to remember that a replacement key might not cost as much as you think.
The cost of purchasing a new car key is determined by several factors, including the type of replacement key you require and the location of your home. Traditional keys are the cheapest while the smart keys are more expensive.
Cost of the parts
The cost will vary depending on the type of key you need. Standard keys without transponder chips are available for $50 to $110. If you require a keyfob with a chip or a push-to-start vehicle that requires a second fob the cost will rise. These types of keys can be costly to duplicate or replace, and are difficult for car thieves to gain access to.
The cost will also be affected by the year, make and model of car you have. The transponder chip on newer cars will need to be programmed with an auto locksmith or dealer. That means that keys that are spare will need to be programmed to work with the car, which can add up to $200. Other factors that affect the cost of replacement keys are:
Auto locksmiths are often the most affordable however, they don't have the tools needed to deal with advanced key fobs or vehicles. You can attempt to duplicate a basic key by yourself at a hardware store, however, the process takes a long time and can be difficult in the absence of the proper tools. You can also seek roadside assistance to help you find a replacement key but they'll probably transport your vehicle to a dealer and the process could take days to complete.
If you have an older key fob, it's recommended to purchase laser-cut all-in-one keys and program them by yourself. This is becoming more difficult as a lot of key fobs are equipped with security features that can prevent theft. Numerous companies offer software to design keys. However, these are only a service to customers with service contracts. If you try to get around these restrictions, it could cause problems, since locksmiths generally do not open cars that were forced or tampered with. If cheap car key replacement to use wire hangers or some other method to open the car, that will also signal red flags to insurance companies.
Cost of Labor
The type of car key you require will determine the amount it will cost to replace. For less than $10, a standard double-edged key can be duplicated at an area hardware store. However, more advanced keys require special machines to design and manufacture. This can dramatically increase the cost of replacing your car key.
If your car uses the key fob to unlock and start the vehicle, you'll have to install a new key fob as well. It can cost as high as $200, depending on the make and model of your vehicle. Many modern vehicles have transponders inside the key which must be programmed and replaced to work correctly. This is a cost that is hard to estimate prior to the moment when the key is lost and needs to be replaced.
To create a new replacement key, a specially-designed cutting machine will also be required. These can be expensive to purchase and aren't readily available to those who do not have a mechanic's shop. The key housing also needs to be replaced, which may increase the cost of replacing a key.
Depending on the type of car key, you may also need to purchase additional replacement parts. For example, some key fobs come with features like panic and remote lock/unlock buttons that can add to the overall costs. Certain key fobs also require batteries that can be costly to replace.
It is recommended to make an extra key before you lose your primary. This will lessen the stress of losing your keys and ensure that you always have a functioning backup. If you do end up needing a new key, seek out a locksmith or a car dealer equipped to work with your vehicle. This will be cheaper than purchasing a new one from the dealership and should enable you to avoid the high costs associated with these alternatives.
If you own a key that requires programming, it's important to have a record of the immobilizer code or the key number in case you want to be able to reprogramme it later. This information is normally located on your registration or title and is available to an auto dealer or locksmith for a fee.
Cost of Equipment
Modern cars come with key fobs that allow you to lock, unlock, and start the car just by pressing a button. These devices can be very convenient, however they can be costly to replace if they become lost or damaged. Locksmiths can save you money when they replace keys without needing to replace the device. There are several factors to consider when determining the cost of the replacement of a car key.
The year, the make and model of the vehicle
There are many different types of keys for cars, starting with basic laser cut keys to switchesblade keys. Keys of this kind are distinct and can be difficult to duplicate. This is particularly the case for modern car keys transponders that must be programmed into the vehicle. This can be accomplished by a professional, however it will cost more than a standard key copy.
The type of vehicle can also affect the cost. Keys for older cars that are basic cost less to replace. However the most modern automobiles require a specific device that can cost upwards of $500 to replace.
The type of key and the location of the car may also impact the cost of a new key. You could be charged more to tow your car to the nearest dealership in case you lose your keys somewhere unknown. You can avoid this expense by keeping keys in a secure location, such as your home or the office.
It is important to remember that keys that are new will most likely need to be programmed by the dealer. This is because most main dealers don't have mobile key programming facilities and can only do it in their workshop. This can be a big cost in the event of losing your car's only set of keys, therefore it is best to take preventative measures and keep a spare set with you at all times.
Cost of Replacement Keys
You may need to buy new keys from an automotive locksmith or a dealer depending on the make and models of your vehicle. Before you do, check your vehicle's key type and whether it has a transponder chip or smart key technology. These technologies could increase your car key replacement cost.
A traditional car without a keyfob is cheap and can be duplicated at a local hardware shop for less than $25. It is recommended to have another spare in the event that you lose your original.
The majority of new cars have the key fob that emits an electrical signal to unlock and start your vehicle. It can be a hassle to replace when it's lost, as you'll need to contact the manufacturer to get a new one and pair it with your vehicle. The cost of the replacement key fob can range between $50 and $125.
In certain instances, you can have a key fob replaced at the dealership as long as you prove ownership by proving registration or title. Dealers may charge an additional fee to cover travel costs and time spent at a remote location. You can also buy an aftermarket car key online or directly from the manufacturer. This may be less expensive but it's more risky due to the fact that the quality of the keys cannot be guaranteed.
It is not advisable to break into your own car with the use of wire hangers or even force, as this could raise red flags and make it difficult for a professional locksmith to unlock your car's door. This could also result in damage to the lock, which could cause cost-intensive repairs or replacements. If you're able to locate your car keys, it may be worth the extra cost to get them cloned at an auto specialist instead of at the dealership. This can save you money, especially when you have an extra car key at home.